Hunt Hot Spring produces 136-degree water from the forested slopes near McCloud in Siskiyou County at just 1,712 feet elevation. The 77-degree temperature differential demonstrates significant geothermal output in lower-elevation terrain dominated by mixed conifer forests.
The spring lies in terrain of Douglas fir, incense cedar, and ponderosa pine forest characteristic of the western Sierra Nevada foothills. A short 340-foot walk from the road brings you to the spring, passing through forest floor covered in needles and small streams from seasonal runoff.
History of Hunt Hot Spring
The McCloud River basin sits in transitional terrain where Sierra Nevada hydrothermal systems extend to the west. The spring's position reflects fault-controlled geothermal circulation feeding lower-elevation thermal features throughout this region.
A short walk from the road keeps this spring accessible without extensive backcountry effort. The area receives 56 inches of annual precipitation and 81 inches of snow, making it inaccessible in heavy winter. Spring through fall offers the best access window.
Is Hunt Hot Spring worth visiting?
Best for
- Hot spring soaking
- Overnight camping trips
Hunt Hot Spring is well suited for hot spring soaking and overnight camping trips.
Annual Precip: 56.2 in
Annual Snow: 81.4 in
December
Air 41°F · Water 136°F · +95° contrast
January
Air 42°F · Water 136°F · +94° contrast
February
Air 44°F · Water 136°F · +92° contrast
December offers 40°F more contrast than July
Overview
This group site is nestled in the Shasta-Trinity National Forest on the Upper McCloud River, popular for its three stunning waterfalls.Camp 4 is typically open from mid-spring through mid-fall, offering primitive accommodations near a variety of recreational activities and magnificent scenery.Note: This is not Camp 4 in Yosemite National Park. Learn more about the Camp 4 daily lottery in Yosemite National Park.
Recreation
During the late spring, summer and early fall, the McCloud Riv...
Reserve on Recreation.gov →
Swimsuit & towel
Water bottle
Stay hydrated, especially in hot water
Camping gear
Nearby camping at Camp 4 Group Campground
Trash bag
Pack out what you pack in
Water shoes
Hot ground near source
USGS Quad: BIG BEND 15 · PP 492: 23.0 · NOAA: 5.0 · AMS Map: ALTURAS
What is the water temperature at Hunt Hot Spring?
Hunt Hot Spring has a water temperature of 136°F (58°C). This is considered a hot spring, well above body temperature.
Where is Hunt Hot Spring located?
Hunt Hot Spring is located in Siskiyou County, California at 1,712 feet elevation, near McCloud. Coordinates: 41.0360°N, 121.9260°W.
How do I get to Hunt Hot Spring?
Hunt Hot Spring has Short Walk road access (340 ft from the road).
Can I camp near Hunt Hot Spring?
Yes, Camp 4 Group Campground is located nearby (14.0 miles away).
Is it safe to soak at Hunt Hot Spring?
At 136°F, Hunt Hot Spring is hot enough to require caution. Enter slowly, limit soaking sessions to 15–20 minutes, and stay hydrated. Access may be on private land or unconfirmed — verify current conditions before visiting. Always tell someone your plans before visiting remote hot springs.
Is Hunt Hot Spring crowded?
Hunt Hot Spring sees varying levels of visitors depending on the season and day of the week.
What should I bring to Hunt Hot Spring?
Essentials for Hunt Hot Spring: swimsuit, towel, water bottle, camping gear, a trash bag to pack out what you pack in. The water is over 110°F — test the temperature before entering and watch for scalding near the source.